Believe it's something to do with the added security measures now in force. We've often had to check in at 4 a.m.!! too,going out to Tenerife on a 7a.m. flight. It's worth it when you get there nice and early though.

Ever since 9/11 most UK airports have a three hour check in time. This was to allow for the additional security that had to be done in the aftermath of that. Some places may have relaxed the time but in general three hours is the norm.

You may notice on your return journey that it is only two hours before your flight time but that is Spanish conditions which also may explain the massive queues that develope.

For our Birmingham Airport Q&As topic, please click here.

David